When a parent or spouse needs daily help, most families do what loving families do. Someone steps in. What begins as a few errands or rides to appointments can grow into hours each day, time away from work, and out-of-pocket costs that add up quickly. Many people only see the dollars spent on care. The true cost of caregiving includes lost income, stress on relationships, and the strain on health that comes from trying to do it all.
At Landau Insurance Brokers, we hear the same story again and again from people in our community. A son or daughter starts helping a parent with meals, medications, or transportation. Soon they are managing bills, coordinating visits, and missing work. Vacations are postponed. Savings are used for home aides or assisted living. Care is an act of love, but without a plan it can quietly take over a family's life.
Where the Money Really Goes
Care can be expensive in many small and large ways. Home health aides, even part time, can become a major monthly bill. Assisted living and memory care can be significant expenses. Families also pay for supplies, transportation, and time away from work. If one child reduces hours or leaves a job to help, the hidden cost is the income, benefits, and retirement savings they lose during those years.
The Emotional and Physical Toll
Caregiving can be physically demanding and emotionally tiring. Siblings may disagree about what to do. Spouses can feel isolated. The caregiver often puts their own health last, which can lead to burnout. Most people want to age with dignity and avoid becoming a burden. A plan respects that wish and supports the entire family.
Planning Ahead Protects Your Independence
The goal of planning is simple. Protect your independence and protect your family. Putting a plan in place while you are healthy gives you more choices later. It can include legal documents, a discussion with family about preferences, and financial tools that help pay for care.
For many people, long term care insurance or an annuity with long term care benefits can turn one deposit into a larger pool of care dollars. Some plans can provide double or even triple the amount set aside for qualified long term care needs. Benefits used for care are typically federal income tax free. If care is not needed, remaining value can often pass to beneficiaries. The right approach depends on your age, health, and goals.
Take the Next Step
No one plans to become a caregiver, and no one wants to rely on their children for daily help. A clear plan reduces stress for everyone and keeps important decisions in your hands. If you are in your 40s, 50s, or beyond, this is a good time to explore options while you can still qualify.
At Landau Insurance Brokers in Los Angeles, we help families in our community across California and in other states prepare for future care needs. We begin with a simple conversation. No pressure, just answers. Contact us to learn what a thoughtful plan could look like for you.
